Title: The Escape Room by L.D. Smithson | Goodreads
Author: L.D. Smithson
Publisher: Penguin Random House
Synopsis:
Everything is a clue.
Eight strangers arrive at a remote sea fort off the coast of England. They are here to take part in The Fortress, a mysterious reality TV show in which contestants have to solve a series of complex puzzles. But this is no game, and the consequences of failure are more deadly than anyone anticipated.No one leaves.
The show’s sinister purpose becomes clear when the first person is evicted from the competition. Instead of being sent home to their family, they are left to die inside a locked room.The only way out is to win.
Under scrutiny from the watching public, the contestants soon turn one another. What are they willing to do for wealth and fame? How far will they go to survive? And who is behind it all? The only thing they know for certain is that if they want to escape, they need to win…Are you ready to play?
My review:
Calling all escape room enthusiasts! After reading The Escape Room, you might want to rethink your next team-building adventure….!
L.D. Smithson’s novel throws you into a high-stakes reality TV show with a sinister twist. Imagine: you’re filming on a remote island which is an ex-military fort, competing for a hefty prize by solving puzzles and riddles. Sounds thrilling, right? But for our contestants, things quickly spiral into a dark and desperate fight for survival.
The book shines with its clever riddles and claustrophobic setting. Stuck with a cast of characters you’ll love to hate (except for the relatable and resourceful Bonnie, our protagonist), the tension builds with each page. Bonnie’s podcast interview is cleverly used as a framing device, offering glimpses of the past while keeping the reader guessing about the outcome. Did she make it out? Who can she trust? The uncertainty adds to the gripping narrative, making you question everything and everyone.
While fast-paced without feeling rushed, The Escape Room delivers pure entertainment. It’s a thrilling mix of mystery, suspense, and social commentary, perfect for readers who enjoy a good puzzle and a twist they won’t see coming. I highly recommend picking this one up!
My rating: 4.5/5
Many thanks to the publisher, Penguin Random House, for providing a copy of this book on which I chose to write an honest review.